Toning up your abs isn't that complicated

There's no area more apparent than the abdominals in proving that fitness is a combination of proper nutrition, resistance training and cardiovascular training.

The first place we point to when we think we've packed on a few pounds is our paunch. Unfortunately, we convince ourselves that only the genetically gifted can have a belly worth baring.

If you're over 35, you probably think softening stomachs are a sign of ripening age, so why bother beating ourselves up in the gym? Well, because that tire rounding out your torso is not a mark of maturity; it's a bellyful of blubber. Left to weaken, it can contribute to lower-back pain and injury.

For awe-inspiring abs, do some weighted abdominal exercises such as the medicine ball twist.

Sit on the floor with your legs extended in front of you and your knees slightly bent. Point your toes upward and keep your heels firmly on the ground. Sit up straight grasping a 6-pound medicine ball in front of you. Then, slowly lean back until you feel your abs engage. First, twist to the right side and tap the ball against the floor next to your hip and then execute the same movement on your left side.

Make sure you are twisting with your torso and not swinging your arms from side to side. Look toward the side you are twisting to effectively target your abdominals and obliques. Try 12 to 15 reps on each side.

Even when your abdominals are strengthened, if your body fat percentage hovers too high, your midsection will remain mediocre. This is why cardio exercise and a healthy diet with lean protein, vegetables, fruit and whole grains are vital.

Committing to 45 minutes of cardio training five to six days a week can effectively blast that belly fat as long as you maintain a nutritionally sound, portion-controlled diet . Keep your body challenged and confused by routinely changing your routine. Whether you try exercise classes or cardio machines, you'll burn that fat in less time flat.